Abstract

This paper applies theoretical knowledge to highlight examples of grassroots and participatory actions by individuals and groups building new mechanisms of action, a mode of operation not often seen in established institutionalised culture. In addition, the paper explores the role of women in the context of participatory design within solidarity economies, based on the premise of scholar and activist Silvia Federici that the commons movement, striving for spaces of solidarity and autonomy and for an understanding of the vital importance of coexistence, is still very closely associated with many women’s initiatives and activities. Through their action, women show their support for non-profit public good initiatives as well as for spaces where people can socialise, explore, and experiment. By acknowledging what has been overlooked, they give voice to the marginalised. With their initiatives, they are building the foundations for decentralised spaces of ethical decision-making and encouraging shared responsibility for the environment we live in. In other words, it is only after we address the issues of social relations, anthropocentrism, dominance and hierarchy that can we start building the foundation for coexistence. This is a chance to reflect on the kind of world we want to live in or, better yet, could live in. And this is key, enabling us to contemplate the vital importance of developing an alternative and the process of building an alternative as an act of rebellion against the present state.

Presenters

Barbara Predan
Associate Professor, Academy of Fine Arts and Design, Department of Industrial Design and Applied Arts, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

Design in Society

KEYWORDS

Participatory Design Gender

Digital Media

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